Driving is a necessity in today’s world, but it is also a killer. Driving can be dangerous and deadly if you don’t have the right tools. Driving defensively and aggressively includes being courteous. For example, if you see someone is tailgating you or following too closely behind you, move over to another lane (if possible) so they are able to pass you. This is something simple and considerate you can do to avoid a potentially dangerous or deadly accident. Being aggressive, means don’t let another driver bully you. For example if you don’t feel comfortable driving in the fast lane, don’t move over just to make another guy happy. In addition, go the speed that you feel comfortable with, as long as it’s within the speed limits. There are some drivers that like to drive fast, while some like to drive slow; drive where you are comfortable. However, this does have some restrictions; if you are going drastically over the speed limit you are not only putting yourself at risk, but also other drivers. While at the same time if you are going dramatically under the speed limit you will probably either cause a traffic jam, cause others to rear end or worse.

This also goes along with this is not fighting other drivers. If you are behind a slow car and there’s no way around the car just slow down. Don’t try to make the driver go faster by tailing that will only frustrate you and make for a dangerous situation.

Constantly be aware of your surroundings while in the car. Not everyone, as a matter of fact most people don’t, use turning signals so anticipation is a huge part of driving. You of course are not a mind reader (or maybe you are) so you won’t be able to detect what another person is going to do next. However, it is important that you keep a safe distance between you other surrounding cars. So that if someone does to decide to haphazardly switch lanes you will be prepared.

The car manufacturers put three mirrors in the car for you to use them, so use them! Be aware of what is going on behind you, but not for too long. Use your side mirrors before you are planning on switching lanes or making a turn. They are also helpful to know when another driver is planning on switching over into your lane. Make note, however, that there on blind spots on both sides of the vehicle. So before switching lanes it is important that you not only look in your side mirrors but also turn to look on the side of your car.

Keeping your distance between the car in front and behind you is also very important. You never want to be too close to another driver, while at the same time you never want to let another car get to close to you.

Using all of these tips in a combined effort is sure to get you safely to where you’re going and back!